Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to your questions about all things ISIC here!
Should I get an ISIC?
Yes! An ISIC provides you an internationally recognized student ID that is accepted around the world. By showing your card and our benefit providers, you will save money on travel, attractions, eateries, shopping, and more!
WHAT IS AN ISIC?
ISIC stands for International Student Identity Card. It is the only internationally recognized student ID card and is recognized in 113 countries. This guarantees you that your student status will be recognized no matter where you travel. With an ISIC you also gain access over 150,000 exclusive student savings!
HOW LONG IS THE CARD VALID FOR?
The ISIC, IYTC, and ITIC are valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
HOW MUCH DOES THE CARD COST?
An ISIC costs $20 plus tax. Your ISIC is a virtual cars that you use on your iOS, Android, or other mobile device. You can purchase a physical card for an additional $5 plus tax. Click here to get your card.
HOW DO I GET A CARD?
To get an ISIC, you can order it online.
If you are a member of the Canadian Federation of Students, click here to get your card for free.
Not sure if you’re a member of the Canadian Federation of Students? See this page.
WHAT ARE THE PHOTO REQUIREMENTS? CAN I SUBMIT ANY PHOTO?
These are our photo requirements:
– clear image of your face from your shoulders up
– properly cropped from your shoulders to the top of your head (like a passport photo)
– clear background, ideally taken against a solid coloured (white) wall
– no image enhancements such as filters
– no other people, animals, or objects that distract or make your appearance unrecognizable
– no screenshots of a photo of you from any other form of ID
We have these photo requirements to ensure you have the best photo on your ISIC card. If your photo doesn’t meet our requirements, we will send an email to let you know.
WHAT 3 THINGS DO YOU NEED TO SUBMIT TO APPLY FOR AN ISIC CARD IF YOU ARE OVER THE AGE OF 16?
1. Passport style photo
– Yes, you can smile in your photo!
2. Scan or photograph of the applicant’s identity card (ID card or passport)
3. Confirmation of student status (less than 2 months old)
WHY DIDN'T I RECEIVE A PLASTIC CARD?
The ISIC is issued as a virtual card. After placing an order, the ISIC team will verify your student status. Once verified, you will receive an email with instructions on how to activate your virtual ISIC. For an additional fee, you can have a physical card printed and mailed to your address by Canada Post.
If you haven’t ordered a card yet, visit the application page here. Select virtual ISIC (or ITIC or IYTC) and enter your details. You will be asked if you wish to add an additional plastic card to your order.
If you have already ordered a virtual card, visit the application here. Select Additional Plastic Card and enter your ISIC serial number to complete the order.
I AM NOT AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT, CAN I STILL GET THE CARD?
Yes! The ISIC is available for any student. It is called an International Student Identity Card because you can use it globally.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM A MEMBER OF THE CANADIAN FEDERATION OF STUDENTS?
MY CARD EXPIRED, CAN I RENEW IT?
If your card is expiring soon or has expired, you must apply for a new card using the new application form. A new application is required as we require your proof of student status.
How does ISIC verify student status?
When applying for an ISIC, students upload a copy of official full-time student status. This is verified with their identification to ensure that they are a registered full-time student.
Can I get a card in person?
The ISIC has been made easily available online. Select the card you wish to obtain above and complete the easy application. Cards are not available for in-person issuing or pickup.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR A VIRTUAL CARD TO BE ISSUED?
A card order typically takes up to 3-5 business days to process. Once an application is received, the ISIC team must review the application, including student status and identity documents. Once the application is approved by the ISIC team, an email is immediately sent with instructions to activate the virtual card and serial number.
WHAT IS THE RETURN POLICY?
After placing your order, you have a short window of time to submit a refund request. Once a card has been issued, we are unable to process any return in partial or full. You will know if your card has been issued as you will receive a welcome email to ISIC and it will feature your card serial number.
Once a serial number has been issued, we are unable to cancel or return the serial number and card.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR AN ADDITIONAL PLASTIC CARD TO BE ISSUED?
A card order typically takes up to 3-5 business days to process. Once an application is received, the ISIC team must review the application, including student status and identity documents. Once the application is approved by the ISIC team, an email is immediately sent with instructions to activate the virtual card and serial number.
Then the additional plastic card is queued for production. Plastic card processing can take up to 5 business days to be produced. If you order your plastic card on a Friday or on the weekend, it may take longer to be processed as our offices do not operate over the weekend. Once your card is produced, the plastic card is mailed via the selected delivery method. Standard shipping is delivered via Canada Post. Canada Post states standard delivery times within Canada range from 5-10 business days. If expedited delivery is selected, typically the card arrives within 2-3 business days.
WHERE IS MY DATA STORED?
The ISIC server is located in the European Union (EU). ISIC Canada maintains the highest level of data protection and security of all cardholders. As our server is located in the EU, ISIC Canada also maintains, along with the ISIC Association, strict adherence to General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). More information on GDPR can be found at gdpr.eu.
All uploaded identity documents, such as proof of student status and identity confirmation documents are automatically deleted from the ISIC server within a few days of application processing.